“In 2011, the Texas Main Street Program celebrates its 30th anniversary and that means we have not only newer programs but also many cities whose Main Street programs have stood the test of time. This recognition honors the many partners of Main Street in each community as well as the progress each program has made. Whether recently designated or long-time programs, year to year, the hard work of the many community members involved in the Main Street process pays off. Through a focus on preserving their authentic historic downtowns, the whole community benefits.” said Debra Farst, state coordinator of the Texas Main Street Program.

The cities were honored at the recent Texas Downtown Association/Texas Main Street Conference in El Paso. The 2011 Conference will be in Nacogdoches, November 1-4, 2011. “We are so excited to be hosting this prestigious group in Texas’ Oldest Town Next Fall,” said Main Street Manager Sarah O’Brien. The National Trust for Historic Preservation’s National Main Street Center will also honor these cities at the 2011 National Main Streets Conference to be held in Des Moines, Iowa in May.

NATIONAL RECOGNITION, 2-2

Cities chosen as National Main Street Cities must show above average performance in 10 categories. The selection criteria focus on planning, staff and volunteers, preservation ethic, training and program assessment. For additional information, visit the National Main Street web site at www.mainstreet.org and the National Trust for Historic Preservation web site at www.nationaltrust.org.

For more information on the Texas Historical Commission’s Main Street program visit www.thc.state.tx.us.

The THC’s Texas Main Street Program is a revitalization program for historic downtown and neighborhood commercial districts. It is based on a four-point approach — organization, design, promotion and economic restructuring, all within the context of historic preservation. Implemented in 1981, the program has assisted more than 140 communities throughout the state. For more information, contact Debra Farst at 512/463-5758.